Making Lemonade

To say that the 4th of July weekend has been hectic would be one of those statements where most people would just roll their eyes and say "join the club." Hectic is maybe not the word; stressful is a much better choice. Between issues with work, trying to make time for family and an upcoming "trip" with the Air Force life has been non-stop and not very fun. Got home late last night from a graduation party and went into a blow out with my daughters that, of course, kept us all up until midnight. The dog poking me at 6:00 AM ruined any chance of a restful morning so I decided a run was maybe the only way to salvage what was looking to be a lousy end of the holiday.

Because I am nursing a shin splint I decided to drive to the D & R Canal to take advantage of the cushioned tow path. Wasn't feeling it when I started in the 100% humidity; but it was "cool." The first quarter/half mile was painful despite a good deal of stretching/warming up. I tried taking in the scenery but was uncomfortable and wishing I had stayed in bed. Rounding a bend I noticed something on the path ahead of me. Getting closer I realized I was staring at a turtle.... a LARGE snapping turtle. Having never seen one in New Jersey I took a moment to watch him. Although annoyed at my presence he continued shuffling across the path in the canal waters. Continuing my run I was finally feeling good and had worked into rhythm. The rest of the out portion of the run was uneventful except I almost elbowed another runner passing me as I brushed a bug. Judging from the "sprinkler effect" his guy was well into a long run.

At the turnaround I was feeling pretty good and enjoying the run. Suddenly I was attacked by a Tiger Tail butterfly. I guess drawn to the neon yellow flash on my jersey he fluttered around my face for a few moments. I'm sure my attempts to stay out of his way were comical from a distance. Then, he fell in along side me and kept pace for about a quarter mile before finding something else to explore. Probably the strangest running partner I've ever had. Nearing the end of my run I'm thinking "it's hot and I'm ready to be done." Movement in a tree caught my attention and I slowed and turned to find myself staring at a Bald Eagle. Not just a Bald Eagle; but one 15 feet away, in suburban New Jersey. What really surprised me was the birds total calm as we eyed each other. Not wanting to disturb him in hopes someone else would be able to enjoy the view I turned to finish my run. Back in the parking lot I took stock of the run deciding it was a successful day. 5.39 miles, having the trail almost all to myself, running almost pain free, and getting to see our nations symbol up close on Independence weekend! As the saying goes: When handed lemons make lemonade. Now, if I can just find some ice.

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